Ah the folk process.

Aly Bain told the story (at Chippenham FF) that Tom composed it for the crofts without lights because the young men were going to the mainland one by one. However his wife had not long died. AND a reporter published the story that it was about his lost wife. AND Tom apparently couldn't disagree with it, he was not sure any more.

That's what Aly Bain said - and if anyone knows - he should.

Lets face it - grief like that can often be a time of seeking solace in something to distract you and if you are a consumate musician, composition is a natural place to visit.